In a bold and calculated move, the University of Iowa has appointed Ben McCollum as the new head coach of the Iowa men’s basketball team, ushering in what fans and analysts alike hope will be a transformative era in Iowa City. McCollum, a native of nearby Storm Lake, returns to his home state with a clear mission: restore Iowa basketball to national relevance and consistency.
After the departure of longtime coach Fran McCaffery—whose 15-season run ended following two consecutive years without an NCAA Tournament appearance—the program is betting on McCollum’s proven formula of toughness, development, and sustained excellence.
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A Proven Winner with Iowa Roots
McCollum’s coaching résumé speaks for itself. Before his recent success at Drake University, where he led the Bulldogs to a 31-4 record and an NCAA Tournament berth in his first and only season, McCollum spent 15 years at Northwest Missouri State, his alma mater. There, he constructed one of the most dominant programs in NCAA Division II history.
Under his leadership, the Bearcats captured four national championships, earned eight MIAA Tournament crowns, and developed into a model of consistency and grit. McCollum earned five NABC Division II Coach of the Year honors during his time at Northwest, a testament to both his on-court results and his ability to cultivate culture.
McCollum’s coaching philosophy is simple but powerful: tough kids win. That mindset defined his tenure in Maryville and carried over to Drake, where his Bulldogs upset No. 6 seed Missouri in the 2025 NCAA Tournament before falling to Texas Tech. It’s a formula that blends discipline, defense, and development—and it’s coming to Iowa City.
New Iowa men’s basketball head coach Ben McCollum speaks during a news conference at Carver-Hawkeye Arena in Iowa City, Iowa, Tuesday, March 25, 2025. (Jim Slosiarek/The Gazette via AP)
Why Iowa Made the Move: NCAA Tournament Disaster
The decision to part ways with Fran McCaffery was not taken lightly. McCaffery brought stability and flashes of brilliance to Iowa, including multiple NCAA Tournament appearances and memorable Big Ten performances. However, the recent downward trend—punctuated by a 17-16 record and a lopsided Big Ten Tournament loss to Illinois—demanded change.
Athletic Director Beth Goetz emphasized that the hiring of McCollum is about more than wins and losses. It’s about identity.
“Ben brings a proven ability to build culture, develop players, and win at a high level,” Goetz stated. “We’re confident he’ll restore Iowa basketball to national prominence.”
From Northwest to the Big Ten: The McCollum Effect
McCollum’s impact at Northwest Missouri State extended far beyond the win column. During his 15-season run, he helped shape the careers of numerous standout players, including three MIAA Defensive Players of the Year. His teams consistently ranked among the most efficient in the nation, and his system emphasized fundamentals over flash—a model built for long-term success.
That system will now be tested in the Big Ten, a conference known for physical play, defensive intensity, and deep coaching talent. Yet McCollum’s record suggests he is more than prepared. With a foundation rooted in player development, discipline, and competitive edge, his style could be the spark Iowa needs to return to March relevance.
What’s Next for the Hawkeyes?
The Iowa men’s basketball team enters this new chapter with several key questions: Which returning players will thrive under McCollum’s system? How quickly can his culture take hold? And how will he approach recruiting in a conference that demands immediate impact?
While the answers will unfold over the coming months, the excitement in Iowa City is already palpable. McCollum’s return to his home state—where his journey from Storm Lake to Division II national champion began—adds a compelling layer to his arrival.
For fans longing for deep NCAA Tournament runs, Big Ten contention, and a return to defensive toughness, the hire signals a recommitment to excellence. McCollum’s mantra—tough kids win—is more than a slogan. It’s a promise.
Future In Iowa City
With Ben McCollum now at the helm, the Iowa men’s basketball team embarks on a new path. Armed with four national titles, eight MIAA tournament crowns, and the unwavering support of Iowa’s athletic administration, McCollum represents a blend of homegrown pride and championship pedigree.
As the spotlight returns to Carver-Hawkeye Arena, one thing is clear: Iowa basketball is ready to fight, to grow, and to win.
The ClutchBuzz team will be tracking every step of this new era. Expect updates, analysis, and insights as Ben McCollum takes on his biggest challenge yet—returning the Hawkeyes to national prominence.
